A Panamax bulk carrier named ALFAISALIAH has run aground in Turkey's Marmara Sea, creating potential disruptions for vessels transiting the Suez Canal. The incident occurred at the Ahirkapi anchorage, adding uncertainty to busy international shipping lanes.
Incident Overview
The 225-meter-long vessel, carrying 76,623 deadweight tons of cargo, departed Istanbul en route to Egypt when the grounding occurred on December 19. After completing refueling operations at Ahirkapi B anchorage on December 18, the Panama-flagged ship attempted to turn back toward anchorage C before becoming stuck.
Vessel Details
- Vessel Name: ALFAISALIAH
- Type: Panamax bulk carrier
- Length: 225 meters
- Deadweight: 76,623 tons
- Flag: Panama
- Year Built: 2001
- Operator: Sabaek General Trading Co WLL
- Intended Destination: Suez Canal
Rescue Operations
Turkish authorities swiftly mobilized rescue efforts, deploying the 17-meter search vessel KEGM-3 along with two 38.5-meter tugboats, Kurtarma 9 and Kurtarma 21 . A team of divers arrived to conduct underwater inspections and assess hull damage.
According to vessel tracking data, ALFAISALIAH was successfully refloated by December 21, though its AIS system indicates the ship remains "not under command." The vessel's draft at the time of grounding measured 13.1 meters, while water depth at the site ranged between 12-14 meters. Currently anchored in the Marmara Sea, the bulk carrier awaits further inspection.
Potential Impacts
While no injuries or environmental contamination have been reported, the incident warrants close monitoring. Significant hull damage could require extended repairs, disrupting the vessel's scheduled transit through the Suez Canal. Such delays might create ripple effects for other ships navigating this critical waterway, potentially affecting global supply chain efficiency.
Shipping companies with cargo destined for Suez Canal transit are advised to monitor developments and coordinate with logistics partners to mitigate potential schedule disruptions.